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Abstract:

A display apparatus a control method thereof are provided, the display
apparatus includes: a display which displays an image thereon; a first
image processor which processes an image signal; a connector which is
connectable to an upgrading apparatus that is provided to upgrade the
display apparatus; and a first controller which executes a first
application program and displays a first image signal corresponding to
the execution of the first application program on the display, and when
receiving a second image signal, corresponding to an execution of a
second application program executed by the upgrading apparatus, from the
upgrading apparatus through the connector, controls the display to
display the second image signal together with the first image signal.

Claims:

1. A display apparatus comprising: a display which displays an image
thereon; a first image processor which processes an image signal; a
connector which is connectable to an upgrading apparatus that is provided
to upgrade the display apparatus; and a first controller which executes a
first application program and displays a first image signal corresponding
to the execution of the first application program on the display, and
when receiving a second image signal, corresponding to an execution of a
second application program executed by the upgrading apparatus, from the
upgrading apparatus through the connector, controls the display to
display the second image signal together with the first image signal.

2. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
controller transmits data for the execution of the second application
program to the upgrading apparatus, when the upgrading apparatus is
connected through the connector.

3. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
controller receives data for the execution of the first application
program from the upgrading apparatus and executes the first program, when
the upgrading apparatus is connected through the connector.

4. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first image
processor combines the first image signal and the second image signal,
and processes the combined image signal to display on the display.

5. The display apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the upgrading
apparatus further comprises a second controller which executes the second
application program, and a second image processor which processes a
second image signal corresponding to the execution of the second
application program to display an image on the display based on the
processed second image signal, wherein the second controller transmits
the second image signal processed by the second image processor, to the
display apparatus when the upgrading apparatus is connected to the
display apparatus through the connector.

6. The display apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first and the
second application programs are identical application programs.

7. The display apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: a user
interface (UI) generator which generates a menu screen displaying options
for a screen combination method of the first and the second image
signals; and a user input device which receives user input corresponding
to the selected user option, wherein the screen combination type
comprises at least one from among picture-in-picture (PIP),
picture-on-picture (POP) and picture-by-picture (PBP).

8. The display apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a
communicator which communicates with an external server and receives an
application program, wherein when the upgrading apparatus is connected
and requests the application program, the first controller transmits one
of inherent IDs of the display apparatus and the upgrading apparatus to
the external server through the communicator and requests authorization
for receiving the application program, and transmits the received
application program to the upgrading apparatus.

9. The display apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first
controller identifies whether the upgrading apparatus stores a second
inherent ID therein for identifying the upgrading apparatus, and if so,
transmits the stored second inherent ID to the external server through
the communicator.

10. The display apparatus according to claim 9, wherein a control right
to the application program, which has been received from the external
server and authorized through the second inherent ID, is retained by the
upgrading apparatus.

11. The display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first
controller is granted the control right to the application program by the
upgrading apparatus and executes the application program based on the
granted control right.

12. The display apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a
storage which stores therein a first inherent ID for identifying the
display apparatus, wherein the first controller transmits the first
inherent ID stored in the storage to the external server through the
communicator if the upgrading apparatus does not store the second
inherent ID therein.

13. The display apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the control
right to the application program, which has been received from the
external server and authorized through the first inherent ID is retained
by the first controller, and the upgrading apparatus is granted the
control right to the application program by the external server and
executes the application program.

14. The display apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the application
program which is transmitted by the external server is stored in the
upgrading apparatus.

15. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
controller controls the connector to monitor an operation state of the
upgrading apparatus, and when it is determined that there is an error in
the operation of the upgrading apparatus, controls the first image
processor to process the image signal.

16. The display apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first
controller controls the connector to periodically receive a predetermined
signal from the upgrading apparatus, and if no signal is transmitted from
the upgrading apparatus, determines that there is an error in the
upgrading apparatus.

17. The display apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first
controller controls the connector to periodically transmit a
predetermined signal to the upgrading apparatus, and if no response
signal is received with respect to the transmitted signal, determines
that there is an error in the upgrading apparatus.

18. The display apparatus according to claim 15, wherein if the error of
the upgrading apparatus is detected, the first controller executes at
least one application program for performing a function of the upgrading
apparatus.

19. The display apparatus according to claim 15, wherein if it is
detected that the error of the upgrading apparatus has been corrected,
the first controller controls the connector to transmit an image signal
from at least one image supply source to the upgrading apparatus and to
receive the image signal processed by the upgrading apparatus.

20. The display apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first
controller controls the display to display a user interface (UI)
regarding the error of the upgrading apparatus.

21. The display apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising a
communicator which communicates with a management server, wherein the
first controller controls the communicator to notify the management
server of the error of the upgrading apparatus.

22. A control method of a display apparatus comprising: connecting an
upgrading apparatus which is provided to upgrade the display apparatus;
executing a first application program and displaying a first image signal
corresponding to the execution of the first application program;
receiving a second image signal, corresponding to an execution of a
second application program that is executed by the upgrading apparatus,
from the connected upgrading apparatus; and displaying the second image
signal together with the first image signal.

23. The control method according to claim 22, further comprising
transmitting data for executing the second application program.

24. The control method according to claim 22, further comprising
receiving data for the execution of the first application program from
the connected upgrading apparatus.

25. The control method according to claim 22, further comprising
processing a first image signal corresponding to the execution of the
first application program; and combining the first image signal and the
second image signal.

26. The control method according to claim 25, wherein the receiving the
second image signal further comprises processing a second image signal,
corresponding to the execution of the second application program, to
display on the display apparatus, by the upgrading apparatus.

27. The control method according to claim 26, wherein the first and the
second application programs are identical application programs.

28. The control method according to claim 26, further comprising
generating and displaying a menu screen which displays an option for a
screen combination type for the first and the second image signals; and
combining the first and the second image signals by receiving a user's
selection and displaying the first and the second image signals through a
screen combination method corresponding to the user's selection, wherein
the screen combination type comprises at least one from among
Picture-in-Picture (PIP), Picture-on-Picture (POP), and
Picture-by-Picture (PBP).

29. The control method according to claim 22, further comprising
receiving a request for an application program from the connected
upgrading apparatus; transmitting one of inherent IDs of the display
apparatus and the upgrading apparatus to an external server and
requesting authorization for receiving the application program; and
receiving the application program from the external server and storing
the application program in the upgrading apparatus.

30. The control method according to claim 29, further comprising
identifying whether the upgrading apparatus stores therein a second
inherent ID for identifying the upgrading apparatus, and the requesting
for authorization comprises transmitting the second inherent ID to the
external server if the upgrading apparatus stores the second inherent ID
therein.

31. The control method according to claim 30, wherein a control right to
the application program, which has been received from the external server
and authorized through the second inherent ID, is retained by the
upgrading apparatus.

32. The control method according to claim 31, wherein the display
apparatus is granted the control right to the application program by the
upgrading apparatus and executes the application program.

33. The control method according to claim 29, wherein the display
apparatus stores a first inherent ID for identifying the display
apparatus, and the requesting for authorization comprises transmitting
the stored first inherent ID to the external server if the upgrading
apparatus does not store the second inherent ID therein.

34. The control method according to claim 33, wherein the control right
to the application program which has been received from the external
server and authorized through the first inherent ID is retained by the
display apparatus, and the upgrading apparatus is granted the control
right to the application program from the display apparatus and executes
the application program.

35. The control method according to claim 34, further comprising:
monitoring an operation state of the upgrading apparatus; processing the
image signal by the display apparatus if it is determined that there is
an error in the operation of the upgrading apparatus; and displaying the
processed image signal.

36. The control method according to claim 35, wherein the monitoring
comprises periodically receiving a predetermined signal from the
upgrading apparatus; and determining that there is an error in the
upgrading apparatus if no signal is transmitted from the upgrading
apparatus.

37. The control method according to claim 35, wherein the monitoring
comprises periodically transmitting a predetermined signal to the
upgrading apparatus; receiving a response signal with respect to the
transmitted signal; and determining that there is an error in the
upgrading apparatus if the response signal is not transmitted.

38. The control method according to claim 35, wherein the processing the
image signal by the display apparatus comprises executing at least one
application program by the display apparatus to perform a function of the
upgrading apparatus.

39. The control method according to claim 35, further comprising:
detecting that the upgrading apparatus is restored from the error;
transmitting an image signal from an image supply source to the upgrading
apparatus; and receiving the processed image signal from the upgrading
apparatus.

40. The control method according to claim 35, further comprising
displaying a UI regarding the error of the upgrading apparatus.

41. The control method according to claim 35, further comprising
notifying a managing server of the error of the upgrading apparatus.

[0003] Apparatuses and methods consistent with the exemplary embodiments
relate to a display apparatus and a control method thereof, and more
particularly, to a display apparatus and a control method thereof which
is connected to an external upgrading apparatus to use functions of the
upgrading apparatus.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] A display apparatus processes image signals supplied by an external
image supply source or image data stored therein according to a series of
signal processing operations, and displays an image on a display panel
based on the processed image signals or image data. A representative
example of the display apparatus is a TV. A related art TV only outputs a
received broadcasting signal through a screen, but nowadays various
application programs may be used through the TV with the development of
technology and to meet consumers' demand.

[0006] A user may purchase a new display apparatus to use new
hardware/software functions through the display apparatus, and this can
be burden to a user. Also, physical replacement of hardware
configurations of the display apparatus, i.e., circuit boards, is not
easy from the perspectives of manufacturing and usage. New software
requires hardware that is designed for such software, and the replacement
of hardware is difficult.

[0007] Even if a user intends to mount an external device in the display
apparatus for use, it is difficult to equip all hardware configurations
necessary for the display apparatus.

SUMMARY

[0008] Accordingly, one or more exemplary embodiments provide a display
apparatus and a control method which displays images from the display
apparatus and an upgrading apparatus connected thereto by a simple
manipulation of the display apparatus.

[0009] An exemplary embodiment may provide a display apparatus and a
control method thereof which receives an application program from an
external server through a communication function of the display apparatus
and uses the application program through the upgrading apparatus.

[0010] An exemplary embodiment may also provide a display apparatus and a
control method thereof which performs a normal function even if an error
which has occurred from the upgrading apparatus is not yet corrected.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display apparatus is
provided, the display apparatus includes: a display which displays an
image thereon; a first image processor which processes an image signal; a
connector which is connectable to an upgrading apparatus that is provided
to upgrade the display apparatus; and a first controller which executes a
first application program and displays a first image signal corresponding
to the execution of the first application program on the display, and
when receiving a second image signal, corresponding to an execution of a
second application program executed by the upgrading apparatus, from the
upgrading apparatus through the connector, controls the display to
display the second image signal together with the first image signal.

[0012] The first controller may transmit data necessary for the execution
of the second application program to the upgrading apparatus, when the
upgrading apparatus is connected through the connector.

[0013] The first controller may receive data necessary for the execution
of the first application program from the upgrading apparatus and execute
the first program, when the upgrading apparatus is connected through the
connector.

[0014] The first image processor may combine the first image signal and
the second image signal, and process the combined image signal to display
on the display.

[0015] The upgrading apparatus may include a second controller which
executes the second application program; and a second image processor
which processes a second image signal corresponding to the execution of
the second application program to display an image on the display based
on the processed second image signal, and the second controller may
transmit the second image signal processed by the second image processor,
to the display apparatus when the upgrading apparatus is connected to the
display apparatus through the connector.

[0016] The first and second application programs may be identical
application programs.

[0017] The display apparatus may also include a user interface (UI)
generator which generates a menu screen displaying options for a screen
combination method of the first and second image signals; and a user
input which is used to input the option, wherein the screen combination
type comprises at least one of picture-in-picture (PIP),
picture-on-picture (POP) and picture-by-picture (PBP).

[0018] The display apparatus may also include a communicator which
communicates with an external server and receives an application program,
wherein when the upgrading apparatus is connected and requests the
application program, the first controller transmits one of inherent IDs
of the display apparatus and the upgrading apparatus to the external
server through the communicator and requests authorization for receiving
the application program, and transmits the received application program
to the upgrading apparatus.

[0019] The first controller may identify whether the upgrading apparatus
stores a second inherent ID therein for identifying the upgrading
apparatus, and if so, transmit the stored second inherent ID to the
external server through the communicator.

[0020] A control right to the application program, which has been received
from the external server and authorized through the second inherent ID,
may be retained by the upgrading apparatus.

[0021] The first controller may be granted the control right to the
application program by the upgrading apparatus and execute the
application program based on the granted control right.

[0022] The display apparatus may also include a storage which stores
therein a first inherent ID for identifying the display apparatus,
wherein the first controller transmits the first inherent ID stored in
the storage to the external server through the communicator if the
upgrading apparatus does not store the second inherent ID therein.

[0023] The control right to the application program, which has been
received from the external server and authorized through the first
inherent ID is retained by the first controller, and the upgrading
apparatus is granted the control right to the application program by the
external server and executes the application program.

[0024] The application program which is transmitted by the external server
may be stored in the upgrading apparatus.

[0025] The first controller may control the connector to monitor an
operation state of the upgrading apparatus, and when it is determined
that there is an error in the operation of the upgrading apparatus,
control the first image processor to process the image signal.

[0026] The first controller may control the connector to periodically
receive a predetermined signal from the upgrading apparatus, and if no
signal is transmitted from the upgrading apparatus, determine that there
is an error in the upgrading apparatus.

[0027] The first controller may control the connector to periodically
transmit a predetermined signal to the upgrading apparatus, and if no
response signal is received with respect to the transmitted signal,
determine that there is an error in the upgrading apparatus.

[0028] The first controller may execute at least one application program
for performing a function of the upgrading apparatus if the error of the
upgrading apparatus is detected.

[0029] The first controller may control the connector to transmit an image
signal from at least one image supply source to the upgrading apparatus
and to receive the image signal processed by the upgrading apparatus, if
it is detected that the error of the upgrading apparatus has been
corrected.

[0030] The first controller may control the display to display a user
interface (UI) regarding the error of the upgrading apparatus.

[0031] The display apparatus may also include a communicator which
communicates with a management server, wherein the first controller
controls the communicator to notify the management server of the error of
the upgrading apparatus.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, a control method of a display
apparatus is provided, the control method includes: connecting an
upgrading apparatus which is provided to upgrade the display apparatus;
executing a first application program and displaying a first image signal
corresponding to the execution of the first application program;
receiving a second image signal, corresponding to an execution of a
second application program that is executed by the upgrading apparatus,
from the connected upgrading apparatus; and displaying the second image
signal together with the first image signal.

[0033] The control method may also include transmitting data necessary for
executing the second application program.

[0034] The control method may also include receiving data necessary for
the execution of the first application program from the connected
upgrading apparatus.

[0035] The control method may also include processing a first image signal
corresponding to the execution of the first application program; and
combining the first image signal and the second image signal.

[0036] The receiving the second image signal further may include
processing a second image signal, corresponding to the execution of the
second application program, to display on the display apparatus, by the
upgrading apparatus.

[0037] The first and second application programs may be identical
application programs.

[0038] The control method may also include generating and displaying a
menu screen which displays an option for a screen combination type for
the first and second image signals; and combining and displaying the
first and second image signals by receiving a user's selection and
through a screen combination method corresponding to the user's
selection, wherein the screen combination type includes at least one of
Picture-in-Picture (PIP), Picture-on-Picture (POP), and
Picture-by-Picture (PBP).

[0039] The control method may also include receiving a request for an
application program from the connected upgrading apparatus; transmitting
one of inherent IDs of the display apparatus and the upgrading apparatus
to an external server and requesting authorization for receiving the
application program; and receiving the application program from the
external server and storing the application program in the upgrading
apparatus.

[0040] The control method may also include identifying whether the
upgrading apparatus stores therein a second inherent ID for identifying
the upgrading apparatus, and the requesting for authorization comprises
transmitting the second inherent ID to the external server if the
upgrading apparatus stores the second inherent ID therein.

[0041] The control method may also include a control right to the
application program, which has been received from the external server and
authorized through the second inherent ID, is retained by the upgrading
apparatus.

[0042] The display apparatus may be granted the control right to the
application program by the upgrading apparatus and executes the
application program.

[0043] The display apparatus may store a first inherent ID for identifying
the display apparatus, and the requesting for authorization comprises
transmitting the stored first inherent ID to the external server if the
upgrading apparatus does not store the second inherent ID therein.

[0044] The control right to the application program which has been
received from the external server and authorized through the first
inherent ID may be retained by the controller, and the upgrading
apparatus may be granted the control right to the application program
from the display apparatus and execute the application program.

[0045] The control method may also include: monitoring an operation state
of the upgrading apparatus; processing the image signal by the display
apparatus if it is determined that there is an error in the operation of
the upgrading apparatus; and displaying the processed image signal.

[0046] The monitoring may include periodically receiving a predetermined
signal from the upgrading apparatus; and determining that there is an
error in the upgrading apparatus if no signal is transmitted from the
upgrading apparatus.

[0047] The monitoring may include periodically transmitting a
predetermined signal to the upgrading apparatus; receiving a response
signal with respect to the transmitted signal; and determining that there
is an error in the upgrading apparatus if the response signal is not
transmitted.

[0048] The processing the image signal by the display apparatus may
include executing at least one application program by the display
apparatus to perform a function of the upgrading apparatus.

[0049] The control method may also include detecting that the upgrading
apparatus is restored from the error; transmitting an image signal from
an image supply source to the upgrading apparatus; and receiving the
processed image signal from the upgrading apparatus.

[0050] The control method may also include displaying a UI regarding the
error of the upgrading apparatus.

[0051] The control method may also include notifying a managing server of
the error of the upgrading apparatus.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display apparatus is
provided, the display apparatus includes: an interface which receives an
upgrading apparatus that is provided to upgrade the display apparatus;
and a controller which receives a second image signal of an application
program that is executed by the upgrading apparatus from the upgrading
apparatus through the interface and controls the display apparatus to
display the second image signal together with a first image signal.

[0053] The first image signal may correspond to another application
program executed in the display apparatus.

[0054] The controller may transmit and receives data necessary for the
execution of the application program to and from the upgrading apparatus
when the upgrading apparatus is connected to the interface.

[0055] The display apparatus may also include: a communicator which
communicates with an external server, and when the upgrading apparatus is
connected to the interface and requests the application program, the
controller requests authorization for at least one of receiving the
application program from the external server and transmitting the
application program to the upgrading apparatus.

[0056] The controller may monitor an operation state of the upgrading
apparatus through the interface, and when it is determined that there is
an error in the operation of the upgrading apparatus, the controller may
control an image processor in the display apparatus to process the second
image signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] The above and/or other aspects will become apparent and more
readily appreciated from the following description of the exemplary
embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in
which:

[0058]FIG. 1 illustrates a display apparatus and an upgrading apparatus
according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0059]FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of a display apparatus and an
upgrading apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0060]FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the display apparatus which
displays a plurality of images;

[0061]FIG. 4 illustrates another type of the display apparatus and the
upgrading apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0062]FIG. 5 illustrates another type of the display apparatus and the
upgrading apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0063]FIG. 6 is a control flowchart showing an image displaying operation
of the display apparatus in FIG. 2;

[0064]FIG. 7 is a control flowchart showing an image displaying operation
of the display apparatus in FIG. 3;

[0065]FIG. 8 is a control flowchart showing an image displaying operation
of the display apparatus in FIG. 4;

[0066]FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a display apparatus according
to an exemplary embodiment;

[0067]FIG. 10 is a control flowchart of the display apparatus according
to an exemplary embodiment;

[0069]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a display system according to an
exemplary embodiment;

[0070]FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a display apparatus and an upgrading
apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0071] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an example of a method of upgrading an
image processing operation of the display apparatus by the upgrading
apparatus in the display system in FIG. 13;

[0072] FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate a screen displayed by a display unit;

[0073]FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a control method of the display
apparatus in FIG. 13 according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0074]FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a control method of the upgrading
apparatus in FIG. 13 according to an exemplary.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0075] Below, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with
reference to accompanying drawings so as to be easily realized by a
person having ordinary knowledge in the art. The exemplary embodiments
may be embodied in various forms without being limited to the exemplary
embodiments set forth herein. Descriptions of well-known parts are
omitted for clarity, and like reference numerals refer to like elements
throughout.

[0076]FIG. 1 briefly illustrates a display apparatus and an upgrading
apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] A display apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment may
process image signals supplied by an external image supply source (not
shown) or image data stored therein according to a predetermined image
processing operation to display an image, and receive from an external
server and execute various application programs for games, education,
etc. As shown therein, the display apparatus 100 may have the upgrading
apparatus 200 mounted therein to use hardware/software functions of the
upgrading apparatus.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the display apparatus is implemented as
a TV, but the inventive concept is not limited to the foregoing case, and
may apply to various types of implementations which display images.

[0079] The upgrading apparatus is provided to upgrade existing
hardware/software configurations of the connected display apparatus, and
may include a memory to store application programs therein and a central
processing unit (CPU) to execute application programs. The upgrading
apparatus may provide functions that are not supported by the display
apparatus. For example, the upgrading apparatus may execute an
application that cannot be executed by the display apparatus, and display
the application on a display unit of the display apparatus. The upgrading
apparatus may provide a function of improving existing operations of the
display apparatus. For example, the upgrading apparatus may include
upgraded configurations compared to the hardware/software configurations
of the display apparatus, and process an image signal through its
upgraded configurations and transmit an image with improved quality to
the display apparatus.

[0080] The upgrading apparatus may be connected to the display apparatus
through a connector provided in a rear surface of the display apparatus
as in FIG. 1, but may be connected thereto by known wired/wireless
communication methods to exchange signals therewith.

[0081] According to an exemplary embodiment, the display apparatus may be
implemented as a smart TV. The smart TV may receive and display a
broadcasting signal in real-time, and has a web browsing function and
displays a broadcasting signal in real-time, and at the same time,
searches various contents through the Internet for consumption, and
provides convenient user environment. The smart TV includes an open-ended
software platform and provides a user with interactive service.
Accordingly, the smart TV may provide various contents, e.g., an
application providing a predetermined service, through the open-ended
software platform. Such applications include an application program
providing various types of services, e.g., social networking service
(SNS), finance, news, weather, maps, music, movies, games, e-books, etc.
If the display apparatus is implemented as a smart TV, it may be
functionally divided into a first block (not shown) which receives and
processes a broadcasting signal and an image signal; and a second block
(not shown) which provides an Internet service function through a web
browser and an application through an open-ended software platform.

[0082] The upgrading apparatus may upgrade functions of the second block
of the divided blocks of the display apparatus. If the upgrading
apparatus is connected to the display apparatus, the Internet service or
application function may be performed by the display apparatus or the
upgrading apparatus.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the display apparatus may execute a
first application program, and process and display a first image signal
that has been generated as a result of the execution of the first
application program. The connected upgrading apparatus may execute a
second application program and process a second image signal that has
been generated as a result of the execution of the second application,
and transmit the second image signal to the display apparatus. The
display apparatus may receive and display the second image signal
together with the first image signal.

[0084] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment will be described in more
detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8.

[0085]FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of a display apparatus 100 and an
upgrading apparatus 200 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] As shown therein, the display apparatus 100 includes a first
storage unit 110 (e.g., a storage, etc.), a first image processor 120, a
display unit 130 (e.g., a display, etc.), a first connector 140, a user
input unit 150 (e.g., a user input), a user interface (UI) generator 160
and a first controller 170 which controls the foregoing elements of the
display apparatus. The upgrading apparatus 200 includes a second
connector 210, a second image processor 220 and a second controller 230
which controls the foregoing elements of the upgrading apparatus.

[0087] The first storage unit 110 stores therein a plurality of programs
performing a predetermined function. For example, the first storage unit
110 stores therein an operating system (OS), a web browser, an open-ended
software platform, and a plurality of applications which is selected and
downloaded by a user through the open-ended software platform. The first
storage unit 110 stores therein various programs and version information
of the programs. The first storage unit 110 may be implemented as a
non-volatile memory such as a flash memory and a hard disc drive. The
first storage unit 110 is accessed by the first controller 170, and data
stored therein are read/written/modified/deleted/updated by the first
controller 170. The first storage unit 110 may store therein data which
are performed by the first controller 170. If the upgrading apparatus 200
is connected to the display apparatus 100 through the first connector 140
(to be described later), the first storage unit 110 may be accessed by
the upgrading apparatus 200, and data may be
read/written/modified/deleted/updated by the second controller 230 of the
upgrading apparatus 200.

[0088] If the first program of the first storage unit 110 is executed by
the first controller 170, the first image processor 120 processes a first
image signal corresponding to the execution of the first program to
display the processed first image signal on the display unit 130. For
example, the first image processor 120 may perform at least one of
various image processing operations including a de-multiplexing operation
for diving signals by nature, a decoding operation corresponding to an
image format of an image signal, a de-interlacing operation for
converting an interlaced image signal into a progressive image signal, a
scaling operation for adjusting an image signal into a preset resolution,
a noise reduction operation for improving image quality, a detail
enhancement operation, and a frame refresh rate conversion.

[0089] The first image processor 120 may combine a second image signal
transmitted by the first connector 140 and the first image signal, by the
first controller 170 and output the combined image signal to the display
unit 130. The combination process may be performed by a screen
combination method as selected by a user of screen combination methods
(to be described later). The screen combination method may include
picture-in-picture (PIP), picture-on-picture (POP) and picture-by-picture
(PBP). The first image processor may further include a voice signal
processor (not shown) which processes a voice signal other than the
foregoing image processing, and the display apparatus 100 may further
include a speaker (not shown) which outputs a voice corresponding to the
voice signal processed by the voice signal processor.

[0090] The display unit 130 may display the first image signal thereon
corresponding to the execution of the first program output by the image
processor. The display unit 130 may display the second image signal
corresponding to the execution of the second program from the upgrading
apparatus 200, together with the first image signal. The first and second
image signals may be displayed on the display unit 130 by one of PIP, POP
and PBP.

[0091] The display unit 130 may include a display panel (not shown) and a
panel driver (not shown) to drive the display panel. For example, the
display panel may be implemented as various displays such as liquid
crystal, plasma, light-emitting diode (LED), organic light-emitting diode
(OLED), surface-conduction electron-emitter, carbon nano-tube, and
nano-crystal.

[0092] The first connector 140 may be implemented as an interface to which
the upgrading apparatus 200 is connected. The first connector 140 may
include an interface to transmit and receive various data signals, image
signals, control signals and power between the display apparatus 100 and
the upgrading apparatus 200. For example, the first connector 140 may
include a connection terminal corresponding to high definition multimedia
interface (HDMI) or component standard to transmit and receive image
signals, and a USB terminal to transmit and receive data signals/control
signals/power. All signals which are transmitted by the display apparatus
100 to the upgrading apparatus 200 may be encoded for security of
contents. The encoded signal may be processed after being decoded by the
upgrading apparatus 200.

[0093] The user input unit 150 may transmit preset various control
commands or unlimited information to the first controller 170 by a user's
manipulation and input. The user input unit 150 is implemented as a menu
key and an input panel installed in an external part of the display
apparatus 100 or as a remote controller separated/spaced from the display
apparatus 100. The user input unit 150 may be integrally formed in the
display unit 130. That is, if the display unit 130 includes a touch
screen, a user may transmit a preset command to the first controller 170
through an input menu (not shown) displayed on the display unit 130.
According to another aspect of an exemplary embodiment, a user's
selection that is input through the user input unit 150 may be
transmitted to the upgrading apparatus 200 through a connector.

[0094] The UI generator 160 may generate and display on the display unit
130 a menu screen displaying an option for a screen combination method of
the first and second image signals by a control of the first controller
170. The menu screen may include an option for selecting at least one of
PIP, POP and PBP.

[0095] The first controller 170 executes at least one program stored in
the first storage unit 110. The first controller 170 executes the first
program corresponding to a first user's selection input through the user
input unit 150, and controls the first image processor 120 to process the
first image signal corresponding to the execution of the first program
and displays the processed first image signal on the display unit 130.
The first controller 170 may transmit and receive
signals/information/data through the first connector 140 and perform a
control operation in response to a command from the user input unit 150.

[0096] The first controller 170 identifies whether a user's selection
input through the user input unit 150 requests for an execution of one or
more predetermined program by multiple users (i.e., multi-users). If the
user's selection requests for the execution of the predetermined program
by the multiple users and the upgrading apparatus 200 is connected to the
first connector 140, the first controller 170 transmits to the upgrading
apparatus 200 data necessary for the execution of the second program
stored in the first storage unit 110. The data which is necessary for the
execution of the program include programs stored in the first storage
unit 110 and version information of the programs. The first controller
170 also transmits an execution command of the second program to the
upgrading apparatus 200. Upon receiving the data necessary for the
execution of the second program and the execution command, the upgrading
apparatus 200 executes the second program, processes the second image
signal corresponding to the execution of the second program and transmits
the processed second image signal to the display apparatus 100 to display
the second image signal on the display unit 130. Upon receiving the
second image signal from the upgrading apparatus 100, the first
controller 170 controls the first image processor 120 to combine the
first and second image signals by a screen combination method according
to the user's selection, and displays the combined signal on the display
unit 130. In this case, the first controller 170 serves as a master
controller, and the second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200
connected to the display apparatus 100 serves as a slave controller.
Accordingly, the first controller 170 may transmit necessary data and
command to the second controller 230 upon receiving a user's selection
for requesting for the execution of the one or more predetermined
programs by multiple users.

[0097] According to another aspect of an exemplary embodiment, the
upgrading apparatus 200 may access the first storage unit 110 of the
display apparatus 100. If the user's input through the user input unit
150 requests for the execution by the multiple users, the first
controller 170 transmits the user's selection to the upgrading apparatus
200. According to the user's selection, the first controller 170 executes
the first program in the first storage unit 110. Upon receiving the
user's selection, the upgrading apparatus 200 accesses the first storage
unit 110 according to the user's selection, reads and executes the second
program and processes the second image signal corresponding to the
execution of the second program and transmits the processed second image
signal to the display apparatus 100. Upon receiving the second image
signal from the upgrading apparatus 200, the first controller 170
controls the first image processor 120 to combine the first and second
image signals by a screen combination method according to the user's
selection, and displays the combined signal on the display unit 130.

[0098] The upgrading apparatus 200 includes a second connector 210, a
second image processor 220 and a second controller 230.

[0099] The second connector 210 is connected to the first connector 140
for communication between the upgrading apparatus 200 and the display
apparatus 100. The second connector 210 is in accordance with the
standard corresponding to the first connector 140 to be connected to the
first connector 140. Accordingly, the second connector 210 may include an
interface to transmit and receive various data signals, image signals and
power between the upgrading apparatus 200 and the display apparatus 100.
For example, the second connector 210 may include a connection terminal
corresponding to high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) or component
standard to transmit and receive image signals, and a USB terminal to
transmit and receive data signals/control signals/power.

[0100] The second image processor 220 may process the second image signal
corresponding to the execution of the second program by a control of the
second controller 230 to display the processed second image signal on the
display unit 130 of the display apparatus 100. The second image processor
220 may perform functions which are identical or similar to those of the
first image processor 120 of the display apparatus 100. The second image
processor 220 may perform an upgraded image processing operation compared
to the image processing operation of the first image processor 120.

[0101] If the upgrading apparatus 200 is connected to the display
apparatus 100 through the second connector 210 and the display apparatus
100 transmits data necessary for the execution of the second program
and/or an execution command, the second controller 230 executes the
second program and controls the second signal processor to process the
second image signal corresponding to the execution of the second program
to display the processed second image signal on the display unit 130. The
second controller 230 controls the second connector 210 to transmit the
processed second image signal to the display apparatus 100.

[0102] As another example, the upgrading apparatus 200 may access the
first storage unit 110 of the display apparatus 100. Upon receiving a
user's selection for requesting for the execution by multiple users from
the display apparatus 100, the upgrading apparatus 200 accesses the first
storage unit 110, reads and executes the second program, and controls the
second image processor 220 to process the second image signal
corresponding to the execution of the second program. The second
controller 230 controls the second connector 210 to transmit the second
image signal processed by the second image processor 220, to the display
apparatus 100.

[0103] The upgrading apparatus 200 may further include a storage unit (not
shown), and the storage unit may store therein data transmitted by the
display apparatus 100 or program execution results by the second
controller 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the first program executed by
the display apparatus 100 may be identical to the second program executed
by the upgrading apparatus 200.

[0104]FIG. 3 illustrates a display apparatus 100 which displays a
plurality of images according to an exemplary embodiment. The first
storage unit 110 stores therein an application corresponding to a game 1
which may be executed by multiple users. If an execution command for the
application of the game 1 is input through the user input unit 150 and a
command for selecting the execution of the application of the game 1 by
multiple users is input, the first controller 170 transmits to the
upgrading apparatus 200 the data necessary for the execution of the
application of the game 1 stored in the first storage unit 110 and the
execution command of the application. The first controller 170 executes
the application of the game 1, and controls the first image processor 120
to process the first image signal corresponding to the execution and
displays the processed first image signal on the display unit 130. Upon
receiving the data necessary for the execution of the application of the
game 1 and the execution command of the application from the display
apparatus 100, the second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200
executes the application of the game 1 based on the data and controls the
second image processor 220 to process the second image signal
corresponding to the execution and to display the processed second image
signal on the display unit 130. The second controller 230 controls the
second connector 210 to transmit the processed second image signal to the
display apparatus 100. Upon receiving the second image signal from the
upgrading apparatus 200, the first controller 170 of the display
apparatus 100 controls the first image processor 120 to combine the first
and second image signals. The second controller 230 controls the UI
generator 160 to generate a menu screen for displaying an option for the
combination method of the two image signals, and upon receiving a user's
selection regarding the option through the user input unit 150, combines
the first and second image signals by the screen combination method
selected by a user and displays the combined image signal on the display
unit 130. If a user's selection of PBP is input as in FIG. 3, the first
image processor 120 combines the first image signal (A in FIG. 3) and the
second image signal (B in FIG. 3) by PBP and displays the combined image
signal on the display unit 130. As the display apparatus 100 and the
upgrading apparatus 200 are connected to each other through the first and
second connectors 140 and 210 for communication, if the identical game 1
application is executed by the display apparatus 100 and the upgrading
apparatus 200, respectively, they may exchange data according to the
execution. Accordingly, a user may control a single device (display
apparatus 100) and execute the game 1 application in a multi-player mode
and display the execution results concurrently on the display unit 130.
That is, a user may enjoy the game as if he/she uses two electronic
devices connected through a network and have more convenience. In an
exemplary embodiment, the program includes a game application, but may
include any application which may be executed by multiple users.

[0105] According to another aspect of an exemplary embodiment, the first
program executed by the display apparatus 100 and the second program
executed by the upgrading apparatus 200 may be different from each other.
The first storage unit 110 may store a game application and an SNS
application, and receive a first user's selection requesting for an
execution of the game application and a second user's selection
requesting for an execution of the SNS application through the user input
unit 150. The first and second user's selections may be input
sequentially. The first controller 170 executes the game application of
the first storage unit 110 according to the first user's selection and
displays on the display unit 130 the first image signal corresponding to
the execution of the game application. The first controller 170 transmits
to the upgrading apparatus 200 the data necessary for the execution of
the SNS application and the execution command for the second user's
selection. The upgrading apparatus 200 executes the SNS application based
on the received data and under the execution command, processes the
second image signal corresponding to the execution to display the
processed second image signal on the display unit 130, and transmits the
processed second image signal to the display apparatus 100. The first
controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 displays the second image
signal together with the first image signal on the display unit 130. The
combination process is the same as that explained above, and will not be
repeated.

[0106]FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the display apparatus 100 and
the upgrading apparatus 200 as another type of the exemplary embodiment.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 4, the display apparatus 100 includes a receiver
180, a first image processor 120, a display unit 130, a first storage
unit 110, a first connector 140, a user input unit 150, a UI generator
160 and a first controller 170 which controls the foregoing elements. The
upgrading apparatus 200 includes a second connector 210, a second image
processor 220 and a second controller 230 which controls the foregoing
elements. The display apparatus 100 in FIG. 4 has elements performing
almost identical or similar functions to those of the display apparatus
100 in FIG. 2 except for the receiver 180. Thus, repetitive description
will be omitted. The elements of the upgrading apparatus 200 in FIG. 4
perform almost identical or similar functions to those of the upgrading
apparatus 200 in FIG. 2, and repetitive description will be omitted.

[0108] The receiver 180 may transmit an image signal from an external
image source (not shown) to the first image processor 120, and the
receiver 180 may receive a broadcasting signal from a transmission
apparatus (not shown) of a broadcasting station. For example, the
receiver 180 may include an antenna (not shown) and/or a tuner (not
shown) to receive the broadcasting signal. The receiver 180 may receive
an image signal from an external image source (not shown). The receiver
180 varies by a standard of the received image signal and an embodiment
type of an image source (not shown) and the display apparatus 100. For
example, the receiver 180 may receive signals/data according to standards
such as high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), USB and component,
and include a plurality of connection terminals (not shown) corresponding
to the foregoing standards and/or according to wireless communication
standards and interfaces.

[0109] The first image processor 120 processes the broadcasting signal
received by the receiver 180 and outputs the processed broadcasting
signal to the display unit 130. The processing of the broadcasting signal
is identical/similar to the processing by the first image processor 120
of the display apparatus 100 in FIG. 2. Thus, repetitive description will
be omitted.

[0110] If a user's selection is input by the user input unit 150 to
request for the execution of a program of the first storage unit 110
while the broadcasting signal processed by the first image processor 120
is displayed on the display unit 130, the first controller 170 transmits
the data necessary for the execution of the requested program and the
execution command to the upgrading apparatus 200 connected to the first
connector 140. The second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200
executes the program based on the data and command, and controls the
second image processor 220 to process the image signal corresponding to
the execution of the program to display the processed image signal on the
display unit 130 of the display apparatus 100. The second controller 230
controls the second connector 210 to transmit the processed image signal
to the display apparatus 100. The first controller 170 of the display
apparatus 100 controls the first image processor 120 and the display unit
130 to display the received image signal together with the broadcasting
signal. The first controller 170 controls the UI generator 160 to
generate and display on the display unit 130 a menu screen including an
option for a screen combination method for the image signal and the
broadcasting signal, and controls the first image processor 120 to
combine the image signal and the broadcasting signal corresponding to one
of the options input through the user input unit 150. The first
controller 170 according to an exemplary embodiment is a master
controller and the second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200
connected to the display apparatus 100 is a slave controller. Thus, the
first controller 170 may transmit necessary data and command to the
second controller 230 upon receiving a user's selection requesting for
the execution of a predetermined program by multiple users.

[0111]FIG. 5 is a control block diagram of a display apparatus 100 and an
upgrading apparatus 200 according to another type of the exemplary
embodiment.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 5, the display apparatus 100 includes a first
image processor 120, a display unit 130, a first connector 140, a user
input unit 150, a UI generator 160 and a first controller 170 which
controls the foregoing elements. The upgrading apparatus 200 includes a
second connector 210, a second image processor 220, a second storage unit
240 and a second controller 230 which controls the foregoing elements.

[0113] Elements of the display apparatus 100 in FIG. 5 perform almost
identical/similar functions to those of the display apparatus 100 in FIG.
2 or 4. Thus, repetitive description will be omitted. Elements of the
upgrading apparatus 200 in FIG. 5 perform almost identical/similar
functions to those of the upgrading apparatus 200 in FIG. 2 or 4 except
for the second storage unit 240. Thus, repetitive description will be
omitted.

[0114] The difference of the elements in FIG. 5 from those in FIGS. 2 and
4 is that the storage unit storing therein a plurality of programs
performing predetermined functions is provided in the upgrading apparatus
200. The second storage unit 240 includes a plurality of programs which
perform predetermined functions. Like the first storage unit 110 in FIG.
2, the second storage unit 240 stores therein, an OS, a web browser, an
open-ended software platform, and a plurality of applications which is
selected and downloaded by a user through the open-ended software
platform. The second storage unit 240 stores therein the foregoing
programs and version information of the programs. The second storage unit
240 may be implemented as a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or
a hard disc drive. The second storage unit 240 is accessed by the second
controller 230, and the data stored in the second storage unit 240 is
read/written/modified/deleted/updated by the second controller 230. The
second storage unit 240 may store therein data
read/written/modified/deleted/updated by the second controller 230.

[0115] If a user selection requesting for the execution of a particular
program is input through the user input unit 150 of the display apparatus
100 and a user's selection requesting for the execution of the requested
program by multiple users is input, the first controller 170 transmits
the input user's selection to the upgrading apparatus 200. Upon receiving
the user's selection, the second controller 230 of the upgrading
apparatus 200 transmits to the display apparatus 100 the data necessary
for the execution of the program stored in the second storage unit 240
corresponding to the user's selection and the execution command. The
first controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 executes the program
based on the received data and execution command, and controls the first
image processor 120 to process the first image signal according to the
execution of the program to display the processed first image signal on
the display unit 130.

[0116] The second controller 230 executes the program by accessing the
second storage unit 240, controls the second image processor 220 to
process the second image signal corresponding to the execution, and
controls the second connector 210 to transmit the processed second image
signal to the display apparatus 100.

[0117] The first controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 controls the
first image processor 120 to display the second image signal together
with the first image signal on the display unit 130. The combination
process of the two image signals is the same as the process explained in
FIG. 2, and repetitive description will be omitted.

[0118] The second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200 connected
to the display apparatus 100 according to another aspect of an exemplary
embodiment may serve as a master controller and the first controller 170
of the display apparatus 100 may serve as a slave controller.
Accordingly, the second controller 230 may transmit necessary data and
command to the first controller 170 upon receiving the user's selection
requesting for the execution of the predetermined program by multiple
users.

[0119]FIG. 6 is a control flowchart of the display apparatus 100 in FIG.
2.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 6, a plurality of programs performing
predetermined functions is stored in the first storage unit 110 of the
display apparatus 100 (S101). If a user's selection is transmitted to
request for the execution of one of the stored programs through the user
input unit 150 (S 102), the first controller 170 identifies whether the
user's selection requests for the execution by multiple users (S103). If
it is identified that the user's selection does not request for the
execution by multiple users (S103--NO), the first controller 170 executes
the first program corresponding to the user's selection, controls the
first image processor 120 to process the first image signal corresponding
to the execution of the first program, and displays the processed first
image signal on the display unit 130 (S104).

[0121] If it is identified at operation 5103 that the user's selection
requests for the execution by multiple users (S103--YES), the first
controller 170 identifies whether the upgrading apparatus 200 is
connected to the first connector 140 (S105). If it is identified at
operation 5105 that the upgrading apparatus 200 is connected to the first
connector 140 (S105--YES), the first controller 170 transmits data
necessary for the execution of the first program and the execution
command to the upgrading apparatus 200 (S 106). The upgrading apparatus
200 executes the first program based on the received data and execution
command, and transmits the second image signal to the display apparatus
100 corresponding to the execution (S107). The first controller 170
executes the first program by accessing the first storage unit 110
(S108), and controls the first image processor 120 to display the first
image signal corresponding to the execution, together with the second
image signal transmitted by the upgrading apparatus 200, on the display
unit 130 (S 109). If it is identified at operation S105 that the
upgrading apparatus 200 is not connected to the first connector 140
(S105--NO), the operation S104 is performed.

[0122] If a user's selection requesting for an execution of another
program is received after the operation S104 (S 110), the first
controller 170 identifies whether the upgrading apparatus 200 is
connected (S111). If it is identified that the upgrading apparatus 200 is
connected (S111--YES), the first controller 170 transmits to the
upgrading apparatus 200 the data necessary for the execution of the
second program corresponding to the user's selection and the execution
command (S112). The upgrading apparatus 200 executes the second program
based on the received data and execution command, and transmits a third
image signal to the display apparatus 100 corresponding to the execution
(S113). The first controller 170 controls the first image processor 120
to combine and process the first and second image signals and displays
the combined image signal on the display unit 130 (S114).

[0123]FIG. 7 is a control flowchart of the display apparatus 100 in FIG.
4.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 7, if the display apparatus 100 receives a
broadcasting signal through the receiver 180, the first controller 170
controls the first image processor 120 to process the received
broadcasting signal and displays the processed broadcasting signal on the
display unit 130 (S201). The first storage unit 110 stores therein a
plurality of programs performing predetermined functions (S202). If a
user's selection requesting for the execution of the predetermined
program is received through the user input unit 150 (S203), the first
controller 170 identifies whether the upgrading apparatus 200 is
connected thereto (S204). If it is identified that the upgrading
apparatus 200 is connected to the display apparatus 100 (S204--YES), the
first controller 170 transmits to the upgrading apparatus 200 the data
necessary for the execution of the program corresponding to the user's
selection and the execution command (S205). The upgrading apparatus 200
executes the program based on the data and command, and processes the
image signal corresponding to the execution and transmits the processed
image signal to the display apparatus 100 (S206). Upon receiving the
image signal from the upgrading apparatus 200, the first controller 170
displays the image signal together with the broadcasting signal on the
display unit 130 (S207).

[0125]FIG. 8 is a control flowchart of the display apparatus 100 in FIG.
5.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 8, a plurality of programs performing
predetermined functions is stored in the second storage unit 240 of the
upgrading apparatus 200 (S301). If the upgrading apparatus 200 is
connected to the display apparatus 100 (S302) and a user's selection is
transmitted to request for the execution of the predetermined program
through the user input unit 150, the first controller 170 of the display
apparatus 100 transmits the user's selection to the upgrading apparatus
200 (S303). The second controller 230 of the upgrading apparatus 200
identifies whether the user's selection requests for the execution by
multiple users (S304). If it is identified that the user's selection
requests for the execution by multiple users (S304--YES), the upgrading
apparatus 200 transmits to the display apparatus 100 the data necessary
for the execution of the first program corresponding to the user's
selection and the execution command (S305). The display apparatus 100
executes the first program based on the received data and command, and
displays the first image signal corresponding to the execution (S306).
The upgrading apparatus 200 executes the first program, and transmits the
second image signal corresponding to the execution to the display
apparatus 100 (S307). The display apparatus 100 combines and processes
the first image signal and the received second image signal to display
the combined and processed image signal on the display unit 130 (S308).

[0127] If it is identified at operation S304 that the user's selection
does not request for the execution by multiple users, the upgrading
apparatus 200 transmits the second image signal corresponding to the
execution of the first program according to the user's selection, to the
display apparatus 100 and the display apparatus 100 displays the second
image signal on the display unit 130 (S310).

[0128] If a user's selection is subsequently transmitted through the user
input unit 150 to request for the execution of another program, the
display apparatus 100 transmits the selection to the upgrading apparatus
200 (S311). The upgrading apparatus 200 transmits to the display
apparatus 100 data necessary for the execution of the second program and
the execution command (S312), and the display apparatus 100 processes the
second image signal corresponding to the execution of the second program
based on the data and command to display the processed second image
signal on the display unit 130. The display apparatus 100 combines and
processes the second and third image signals and displays the combined
and processed image signal on the display unit 130 (S313).

[0129] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment will be described with
reference to FIGS. 9 to 11.

[0130] The display apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment may be
connected to the upgrading apparatus to use functions of the upgrading
apparatus, and a connection method of the upgrading apparatus may be as
in FIG. 1.

[0131]FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a display apparatus 300
according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0132] As shown therein, the display apparatus 300 includes a display unit
310, a connector 320, a communication unit 330 (e.g., a communicator,
etc.) and a controller 340.

[0134] The connector 320 is connected to the upgrading apparatus 400 which
is provided to upgrade the display apparatus 300. The connector 320 may
be implemented as a connector according to standards such as a high
definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB), a
component, etc. The upgrading apparatus 400 and the display apparatus 300
may exchange various signals through the connector 320, and the display
apparatus 300 may supply power to the upgrading apparatus 400 through the
connector 320.

[0135] The communication unit 330 communicates with an external server 10
through known wired/wireless communication methods, and receives various
application programs from the external server 10. The display apparatus
300 should have an inherent ID to be authorized to receive the
application program from the external server 10. If the display apparatus
300 transmits the inherent ID to the external server 10 to receive the
application program, the external server 10 determines whether the
display apparatus 300 is authorized to receive the application program
based on the inherent ID. The upgrading apparatus 400 may also receive
and execute the application program. Even if the upgrading apparatus 400
does not have a communication function, the upgrading apparatus 400 may
be connected to the external server 10 through the communication unit 330
of the display apparatus 300 and receive the application program by being
mounted in the display apparatus 300.

[0136] The external server 10 stores therein the application program data
and the information regarding the device which is authorized to receive
the application program. The external server 10 identifies purchase
history of the application program and compatibility of devices based on
the inherent ID.

[0137] The controller 340 may control elements of the display apparatus
300, execute application programs and may be implemented as a central
processing unit (CPU).

[0138] The controller 340 identifies connection/non-connection of the
upgrading apparatus 400 through the connector 320, and upon receiving a
request for an application program from the connected upgrading apparatus
400, requests for the application program to the external server 10. As
explained above, the display apparatus 300 should undergo the
authorization process through its inherent ID to be authorized as a
device to receive the application program. Upon receiving a request for
an application program from the upgrading apparatus 400, one of inherent
IDs of the display apparatus 300 and the upgrading apparatus 400 is
transmitted to the external server 10 through the communication unit 330
to request for authorization.

[0139] Hereinafter, the inherent ID which is stored in the display
apparatus 300 and used to identify the display apparatus 300 will be
named as a first inherent ID, and the inherent ID which is stored in the
upgrading apparatus 400 and used to identify the upgrading apparatus 400
will be named as a second inherent ID. The controller 340 identifies
whether the upgrading apparatus 400 stores the second inherent ID
therein. According to the identification result, the authorization
process of the external server 10 is performed in separately.
Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments regarding storage/non-storage of the
second inherent ID will be described.

[0140] First, the case where the upgrading apparatus 400 stores the second
inherent ID therein will be described.

[0141] If the upgrading apparatus 400 stores the second inherent ID
therein, the controller 340 of the display apparatus 300 transmits the
second inherent ID to the external server 10 through the communication
unit 330. The external server 10 receives the second inherent ID,
identifies whether the upgrading apparatus 400 is authorized to receive
the application program and transmits the application program to the
display apparatus 300. The display apparatus 300 transmits the
application program to the upgrading apparatus 400 through the
communication unit 300, and the application program is stored in a memory
of the upgrading apparatus 400.

[0142] The right to control the application program which has been
received by the display apparatus 300 through the authorization process
based on the second inherent ID is retained by the upgrading apparatus
400. That is, the application may be executed only by the upgrading
apparatus 400 in principle. After the application program is stored, if
the upgrading apparatus 400 is connected to another display apparatus 300
other than the display apparatus 300 which has received the application
program, the application program may be executed by the upgrading
apparatus 400. Even in this case, the controller 340 of the display
apparatus 300 may be granted the control right by the upgrading apparatus
400 and execute the application program stored in the upgrading apparatus
400.

[0143] Hereinafter, the case where the upgrading apparatus 400 does not
store the second inherent ID therein will be described.

[0144] The display apparatus 300 may further include a storage unit 350 to
store a first inherent ID therein to identify the display apparatus 300.
The storage unit 350 may be provided as a large storage device such as a
hard disc drive (HDD), and may store various information including
application programs therein. Upon receiving a request for an application
program from the upgrading apparatus 400, if it is determined that the
upgrading apparatus 400 does not store the second inherent ID therein,
the controller 340 transmits the stored first inherent ID to the external
server 10 through the communication unit 330 and requests for
authorization for the reception of the application program. In this case,
the application program is stored in the upgrading apparatus 400 which
has requested the application program.

[0145] The right to control the application program which has been
received based on the first inherent ID is retained by the controller
340. Accordingly, the upgrading apparatus 400 may be granted the control
right by the controller 340 to execute the application program. If the
upgrading apparatus 400 is connected to another display apparatus 300
other than the display apparatus 300 which has received the application
program, the upgrading apparatus 400 may not execute the stored
application program.

[0146] In the display apparatus 300 which has been described above, the
application program which has been transmitted by the external server 10
through the communication function of the display apparatus 300 may be
used through the upgrading apparatus 400.

[0147] The controller 340 may execute the application program stored in
the storage unit 350 regardless of the upgrading apparatus 400. The first
image which has been generated by executing the application program by
the display apparatus 300 is formed as a separate layer from the second
image which has been generated by executing the application program by
the upgrading apparatus 400. The controller 340 may combine the first and
second images based on a preset priority and display the combined image
on the display unit 310.

[0148]FIG. 10 is a control flowchart of a display apparatus 300 according
to an exemplary embodiment.

[0149] The upgrading apparatus 400 is connected to the display apparatus
300 (S410). The display apparatus 300 may be implemented as a TV, and the
upgrading apparatus 400 is provided to upgrade existing hardware/software
configurations of the display apparatus 300. The upgrading apparatus 400
may include a memory to store application programs therein and a CPU to
execute the application programs.

[0150] The display apparatus 300 receives a request for an application
program from the upgrading apparatus 400 (S430). The display apparatus
300 may communicate with the external server 10 through known
wired/wireless communication methods, and receive various application
programs from the external server 10. The upgrading apparatus 400 may
receive the application program from the external server 10 by using the
communication function of the display apparatus 300. In this case, the
inherent ID should be transmitted and authorized by the external server
10 to receive the application program from the external server 10. The
external server 10 determines whether the display apparatus 300 is
entitled to receive the application program based on the inherent ID.

[0151] The display apparatus 300 transmits one of inherent IDs of the
display apparatus 300 and the upgrading apparatus 400 and requests for
authorization for receiving the application program (S450). If the
display apparatus 300 is determined to be entitled to receive the
application program, the external server 10 transmits the application
program to the display apparatus 300 (S470), and the transmitted
application program is stored in the upgrading apparatus 400 (S490).

[0152] The display apparatus 300 may execute the stored application
program regardless of the upgrading apparatus 400. The first image which
has been generated by executing the application program by the display
apparatus 300 is formed as a separate layer from the second image which
has been generated by executing the application program by the upgrading
apparatus 400. The display apparatus 300 may combine and display the
first and second images based on a preset priority.

[0154] First, it is determined that the upgrading apparatus is connected
to the display apparatus (S510). Upon receiving a request for an
application program from the upgrading apparatus 400 (S530), the display
apparatus 300 identifies whether the upgrading apparatus 400 stores
therein the second inherent ID (S540). The request for authorization of
the external server 10 depending on the storage/non-storage of the second
inherent ID is performed separately.

[0155] If the upgrading apparatus 400 stores the second inherent ID
therein (S540--YES), the display apparatus 300 transmits the second
inherent ID to the external server 10 (S551). In this case, the right to
control the application program which has been received through the
authorization process based on the second inherent ID is retained by the
upgrading apparatus 400 (S570). That is, the application program may be
executed only by the upgrading apparatus 400 in principle, and after the
application program is stored (S590), the application program may be
executed by the upgrading apparatus 400 even if the upgrading apparatus
400 is connected to another display apparatus 400 other than the display
apparatus 300 which has received the application program. Even in this
case, the display apparatus 300 may be granted the control right by the
upgrading apparatus 400 and execute the application program stored in the
upgrading apparatus 400.

[0156] If the upgrading apparatus 400 does not store the second inherent
ID therein (S540--NO), the display apparatus 300 transmits the first
inherent ID to the external server 10 to identify the display apparatus
300 (S553). In this case, the control right to the application program
which has been received through the authorization process based on the
first inherent ID is retained by the display apparatus 300. Accordingly,
the upgrading apparatus 400 may be granted the control right by the
display apparatus 300 to execute the application program. If the
upgrading apparatus 400 is connected to another display apparatus 300
other than the display apparatus 300 which has received the application
program, the upgrading apparatus 400 may not execute the stored
application program.

[0157] According to the control method of the display apparatus 300 which
has been described above, the application program which has been
transmitted by the external server 10 through the communication function
of the display apparatus 300 may be used through the upgrading apparatus
400.

[0158] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment will be described with
reference to FIGS. 12 to 19.

[0159]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a display system 1 according to an
exemplary embodiment.

[0160] As shown therein, the display system 1 according to an exemplary
embodiment includes a display apparatus 500 and an upgrading apparatus
600. The display apparatus 500 and the upgrading apparatus 600 are
connected to each other for communication. The upgrading apparatus 600 is
connected to the display apparatus 500, i.e., an existing device
(hereinafter, to be also called original device) and acts as an extended
device. The connected display apparatus 500 and upgrading apparatus 600
exchange image signals such as broadcasting signals and control signals
including various data and power. The display apparatus 500 processes an
image signal supplied by an external image supply source (not shown), and
displays the processed image signal.

[0161] In the display system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment, the
display apparatus 500 is implemented as a TV which displays a
broadcasting image based on broadcasting signals/broadcasting
information/broadcasting data transmitted by a transmission apparatus of
a broadcasting station. However, an exemplary embodiment is not limited
to the foregoing implementation type of the display apparatus 500. The
display apparatus 500 may include various types of displays which display
an image.

[0162] The type of an image which is displayable by the display apparatus
500 is not limited to the broadcasting image, and may include a video,
still image, applications, on screen display (OSD), a graphic user
interface (GUI) to control various operations, based on signals/data
transmitted by various signal supply sources (not shown).

[0163] The upgrading apparatus 600 is connected to the display apparatus
500 for communication. The upgrading apparatus 600 upgrades existing
hardware/software configurations of the connected display apparatus 500,
and enables the upgraded hardware/software configurations of the display
apparatus 500 to process an image signal to thereby display an image with
improved quality.

[0164] For example, the upgrading apparatus 600 may be a device for
upgrading hardware of a TV such as an image processing circuit, and may
be detachably attached to the display apparatus 500.

[0165] The upgrading apparatus 600 may also be connected to the display
apparatus 500 in a wireless manner. In this case, the upgrading apparatus
600 may receive power from an additional external power source or
battery. In an exemplary embodiment, however, the case where the
upgrading apparatus 600 is connected to the display apparatus 500 in a
wired manner will be described.

[0166] The display apparatus 500 may process an image signal supplied from
the outside, and display an image based on the processed image signal.

[0167] According to an exemplary embodiment, the upgrading apparatus 600
is connected to the display apparatus 500 and upgrades hardware/software
configurations of the display system 1 performing the image processing
operation. The upgrading apparatus 600 receives from the display
apparatus 500 and processes the image signal, and transmits the processed
image signal to the display apparatus 500. The display apparatus 500
displays an image corresponding to the image signal transmitted by the
upgrading apparatus 600. Accordingly, an image with improved quality may
be provided.

[0168]FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a display apparatus 500 and an
upgrading apparatus 600 which form a display system 1 according to an
exemplary embodiment.

[0169] As shown therein, the display apparatus 500 includes a first
connector 510 which is connected to at least one image supply source 20,
a first image processor 520 which processes an image signal transmitted
by the image supply source 20 through the first connector 510, a display
unit 530 which displays an image thereon based on the image signal
processed by the first image processor 520, a user input unit 540 which
outputs a preset command according to a user's input, a first storage
unit 550 which stores therein unlimited data/information, a communication
unit 560 which communicates with the outside in a wired/wireless manner,
and a first controller 570 which controls overall operations of the
display apparatus 500.

[0170] The first connector 510 is an input/output (I/O) device
transmitting an image signal from at least one image supply source 20 to
the first image processor 520, and varies by a standard of a received
image signal or an implementation type of the image supply source 20 and
the display apparatus 500. For example, the first connector 510 receives
signals/data according to standards such as HDMI, USB, and component and
includes a plurality of connection terminals (not shown) corresponding to
the foregoing standards. Various external devices including the image
supply source 20 are connected to the connection terminals to enable
communication via the first connector 510.

[0171] That is, the external device which is connected to the first
connector 510 is not limited to the image supply source 20. Any device
which may exchange signals/data with the display apparatus 500 through
the first connector 510 may be connected to the first connector 510, and
according to an exemplary embodiment, the upgrading apparatus 600 may be
connected to the first connector 510.

[0172] The first image processor 520 processes an image signal transmitted
by the first connector 510 according to preset various image processing
operations. The first image processor 520 outputs the processed image
signal to the display unit 530 to display an image on the display unit
530 based on the image signal.

[0173] The image processing operation of the first image processor 520 may
include, but not limited to, a de-multiplexing operation for dividing a
predetermined signal by nature, a decoding operation corresponding to an
image format of an image signal, a de-interlacing operation for
converting an interlaced image signal into a progressive image signal, a
scaling operation for adjusting an image signal into a preset resolution,
a noise reduction operation for improving an image quality, a detail
enhancement operation, and a frame refresh rate conversion.

[0175] The display unit 530 displays an image thereon based on an image
signal output by the first image processor 520. The display unit 530 may
be implemented as various display panels including liquid crystal,
plasma, light-emitting diode (LED), organic light-emitting diode (OLED),
surface-conduction electron-emitter, carbon nano-tube, and nano-crystal,
but not limited thereto.

[0176] The display unit 530 may further include additional elements
depending on the display type. For example, the display unit 530 as an
LCD type may include an LCD panel (not shown), a backlight unit (not
shown) to emit light to the LCD panel, and a panel driving substrate (not
shown) to drive the LCD panel (not shown).

[0177] The user input unit 540 outputs preset various control commands or
unlimited information by a user's manipulation and input to the first
controller 570. The user input unit 540 may be implemented as a menu key
and an input panel installed in an external part of the display apparatus
500, or a remote controller which is separated/spaced from the display
apparatus 500.

[0178] The user input unit 540 may be integrally formed in the display
unit 530. That is, if the display unit 530 includes a touch screen, a
user may transmit a preset command to the first controller 570 through an
input menu (not shown) displayed on the display unit 530.

[0179] The first storage unit 550 stores therein unlimited data by a
control of the first controller 570. The first storage unit 550 is
implemented as a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or a hard
disc drive. The first storage unit 550 is accessed by the first
controller 570, and data stored therein may be
read/recorded/modified/deleted/updated by the first controller 570.

[0180] The data which are stored in the first storage unit 550 include an
operating system (OS) for driving the display apparatus 500, various
applications which are executed on the OS, image data, and additional
data.

[0181] The communication unit 560 communicates with the outside, e.g., a
management server 30. The communication unit 560 includes a
wired/wireless communication module to communicate with the outside
including the management server 30.

[0182] The first controller 570 controls various elements of the display
apparatus 500. For example, the first controller 570 controls the first
image processor 520 to process an image signal, executes an application
for graphic processing such as GUI, receives and transmits
signals/information/data through the first connector 510, and performs a
corresponding control operation with respect to a command from the user
input unit 540 to thereby control overall operations of the display
apparatus 500.

[0183] The display apparatus 500 having the foregoing configuration should
be upgraded due to various factors such as the development of technology
as usage time elapses. For example, the display apparatus 500 should be
upgraded to receive an image signal in a new format that was not offered
at the time of manufacturing the display apparatus 500 or to receive an
image signal with a resolution that is higher than the level supported by
the display apparatus 500 to meet the trend requiring a high quality
image, or to reduce system load to the display apparatus 500.

[0184] Upgrading the display apparatus 500 may be considered from the
perspectives of hardware and software. According to an exemplary
embodiment, the upgrading apparatus 600 is connected to the first
connector 510 to upgrade at least one of existing hardware and software
of the display apparatus 500.

[0185] The upgrading apparatus 600 includes hardware/software
configurations corresponding to at least a part of hardware/software
resources of the display apparatus 500. The configurations of the
upgrading apparatus 600 may perform an improved function compared to the
part of the resources of the display apparatus 500. Upon connection to
the display apparatus 500, the upgrading apparatus 600 replaces at least
a part of the existing resources of the display apparatus 500 to improve
the quality of an image displayed by the display apparatus 500.

[0186] According to an exemplary embodiment, upon connection to the
display apparatus 500, the upgrading apparatus 600 (extended device)
obtains the right to control the image processing operation of the
display apparatus 500 (original device). Then, the upgrading apparatus
600 (extended device) replaces resources of the display apparatus 500
(original device), and the existing resources of the display apparatus
500, e.g., the first image processor 520 exists as a spare resource.

[0187] The existing resources of the display apparatus 500 which have
transferred the control right to the image processing operation exist in
a standby mode, and the display unit 530 receives the image signal
processed by the upgrading apparatus 600 and displays an image
corresponding to the received image signal.

[0188] Hereinafter, configurations of the upgrading apparatus 600 will be
described.

[0189] The upgrading apparatus 600 includes a second connector 610 which
is connected to the first connector 510 of the display apparatus 500, a
second image processor 620 which performs processes corresponding to at
least a part of the image processing operations of the first image
processor 520, a second storage unit 650 which stores unlimited
data/information therein, and a second controller 670 which controls
overall operations of the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0190] The second connector 610 is connected to the first connector 510
and enables communication between the upgrading apparatus 600 and the
display apparatus 500. The second connector 610 may be connected to at
least one of a plurality of connection terminals (not shown) of the first
connector 510.

[0191] For example, out of the plurality of connection terminals of the
first connector 510, the second connector 610 may be connected to an HDMI
terminal (not shown) to transmit and receive image signals between the
display apparatus 500 and the upgrading apparatus 600, and to a USB
terminal (not shown) to transmit and receive data and power between the
display apparatus 500 and the upgrading apparatus 600. However, this is
an example, and the connection method for the first and second connectors
510 and 610 may vary.

[0192] The second image processor 620 may perform a second process
corresponding to a first process performed by the first image processor
520 of the display apparatus 500. The first and second processes are
named for purposes of convenience only, and may include a single unit
process or a plurality of unit processes. The second process is
functionally improved compared to the first process, and such improvement
is realized by improvement of hardware such as chipsets or improvement of
software such as algorithms/execution codes/programs.

[0193] The second image processor 620 performs the second process on
behalf of the first process by a control of the first controller 570 or
the second controller 670 when the display apparatus 500 and the
upgrading apparatus 600 are connected to each other. As the second
process which is functionally improved compared to the first process
replaces the first process, the entire image processing operation may be
improved. This will be described in more detail later.

[0194] The second storage unit 650 stores therein unlimited data. The
second storage unit 650 may be implemented as a non-volatile memory such
as a flash memory or a hard disc drive. The second storage unit 650 is
accessed by the first controller 570 or the second controller 670, and
the data stored in the second storage unit 650 is
read/written/modified/deleted/updated by the first controller 570 or the
second controller 650. The first storage unit 550 may be accessed by the
second controller 670 as well as by the first controller 570 depending on
its implementation type.

[0195] The second controller 670 controls various elements of the
upgrading apparatus 600 to perform the overall image processing
operation. For example, the second controller 670 controls the second
image processor 620 to perform the image processing operations, transmits
and receives signals/information/data through the second connector 610 to
thereby control entire operations of the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0196] The second controller 670 and the first controller 570 may be
implemented as a CPU. If the second controller 670 may perform an
improved function compared to the first controller 570, the second
controller 670 may disable the first controller 570 and control overall
operations of the display system 1 on behalf of the first controller 570.
Otherwise, the second controller 670 may control the overall operations
of the display system 1 together with the first controller 570.

[0197] The second controller 670 and the first controller 570 may further
include a memory such as a graphic processing unit (GPU), a digital
signal processor (DSP), and a DDR RAM.

[0198] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment for upgrading the display
apparatus 500 by the upgrading apparatus 600 will be described with
reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the upgrading
apparatus 600 which is mounted in the display apparatus 500 operates as a
main device and the display apparatus 500 operates as a spare device.

[0199]FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a method of upgrading the image
processing operation of the display apparatus 500 by the upgrading
apparatus 600 in the display system 1 according to an exemplary
embodiment.

[0200] As shown therein, upon receiving a predetermined signal, e.g., a
broadcasting signal from the image supply source 20 (711), the display
apparatus 500 processes the broadcasting signal according to image
processing operations 712, 713 and 714 in a preset sequence. The image
processing operations 712, 713 and 714 in FIG. 14 only represent some of
the image processing operations, but not all of image processing
operations of the display apparatus 500.

[0201] The display apparatus 500 performs a de-multiplexing operation for
dividing the received broadcasting signal into an image signal, a voice
signal and additional data (712). The display apparatus 500 processes the
de-multiplexed signal, e.g., decodes the image signal into a preset image
format (713). The display apparatus 500 scales the decoded image signal
into a predetermined resolution to display an image on the display unit
530 (714), and displays the image based on the scaled image signal (715).

[0202] In a series of sequences, the upgrading apparatus 600 may perform a
process 723 corresponding to the decoding process 713 of the display
apparatus 500. The decoding process 723 of the upgrading apparatus 600 is
identical in an operational aspect to the decoding process 713 of the
display apparatus 500 but functionally improved from the decoding
operation 713 of the display apparatus 500. Thus, performance of the
decoding process 723 may improve the image processing operation.

[0203] For example, the decoding operation 723 may process an image signal
with a resolution that is not processed by the decoding operation 713, or
may process an image signal in a format that is not processed by the
decoding operation 723 or apply an additional effect to the image signal
that is not applied by the decoding operation 713.

[0204] Regarding the sequence of the image processing operation according
to an exemplary embodiment, the decoding operation 723 of the upgrading
apparatus 600 replaces the decoding operation 713 of the display
apparatus 500 after the performance of the de-multiplexing operation 712,
by a control of the first controller 570 or the second controller 670.
The scaling operation 714 follows the decoding operation 723 of the
upgrading apparatus 600.

[0205] In such a sequence, the display apparatus 500 and the upgrading
apparatus 600 exchange image signals and control signals, according to a
control of the first controller 570 or the second controller 670.

[0206] Unlike the case in FIG. 14 in which a part of the image processing
operation is replaced, the second image processor 620 of the upgrading
apparatus 600 may replace the first image processor 520 of the display
apparatus 500. This will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15
is a block diagram showing a process of transmitting an image signal
received through the first connector 510 in the display system 1
according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 15, if the upgrading apparatus 600 is not
connected to the display apparatus 500, if the image signal is received
through the first connector 510 (731), the image signal is transmitted to
the first image processor 520 (732). The first image processor 520
processes the image signal and outputs the processed image signal to the
display unit 530 (733), and the display unit 530 displays an image
thereon based on the image signal processed by the first image processor
520.

[0208] As shown in FIG. 15, if the upgrading apparatus 600 is connected to
the display apparatus 500, the image signal is received through the first
connector 510 (731), and then transmitted to the second image processor
620 not the first image processor 520 (734). The second image processor
620 processes the first image signal on behalf of the first image
processor 520, and the image signal processed by the second image
processor 620 is transmitted back to the display apparatus 500 (735).

[0209] The image signal bypasses the first image processor 520 and is
transmitted to the display unit 530 (736), and the display unit 530
displays an image based on the image signal processed by the second image
processor 620.

[0210] If the display apparatus 500 and the upgrading apparatus 600 are
connected to each other, the second controller 670 may disable the first
controller 570 and control the first and second image processors 520 and
620. If an OS stored in the second storage unit 650 is a version-up of an
OS stored in the first storage unit 550, the OS of the first storage unit
550 is updated to the OS of the second storage unit 650 to be driven, or
the OS of the second storage unit 540 may be driven on behalf of the OS
of the first storage unit 550.

[0211] With the foregoing configuration, the upgrading apparatus 600
according to an exemplary embodiment may upgrade the display apparatus
500.

[0212] If the display apparatus 500 and the upgrading apparatus 600 are
connected to each other, the first controller 570 of the display
apparatus 500 monitors the state of the upgrading apparatus 600 (main
device) through the first connector 510.

[0213] More specifically, the first controller 570 controls the first
connector 510 to periodically receive a predetermined signal from the
upgrading apparatus 600 to monitor the state of the upgrading apparatus
600.

[0214] To do so, the second controller 670 of the upgrading apparatus 600
additionally transmits a predetermined signal to the display apparatus
500 to show the normal operation of the upgrading apparatus 600. The
upgrading apparatus 600 according to an exemplary embodiment may
periodically transmit a heat bit signal to the display apparatus 500
through the second connector 610.

[0215] As the case may be, the second controller 670 of the upgrading
apparatus 600 may control the second connector 610 to transmit to the
display apparatus 500 a heat bit signal as a response signal to the
predetermined signal transmitted periodically by the display apparatus
500. That is, the first controller 570 of the display apparatus 500
controls the first connector 510 to periodically transmit a predetermined
signal to the upgrading apparatus 600, and to receive the heat bit signal
as the response signal from the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0216] The first controller 570 monitors the heat bit signal that is
transmitted periodically by the upgrading apparatus 600. If it is
monitored that the heat bit signal has not been received, the first
controller 570 determines that there is an error in the upgrading
apparatus 600.

[0217] If it is determined that the error has occurred from the upgrading
apparatus 600, the control right to the image processing operation is
transferred to the display apparatus 500. The original device which
exists as the spare resource performs the image processing operation by
the connection of the upgrading apparatus 600. The first controller 570
performs a preparation operation for performing the image processing
operation by the display apparatus 500.

[0218] The first controller 570 executes at least one application to
perform the function of the upgrading apparatus 600 as well as the image
processing operation. The at least one application includes an
application providing various services (e.g., graphic processing such as
GUI) of a smart TV.

[0219] More specifically, if the first controller 570 detects an
occurrence of an error from the upgrading apparatus 600 (extended device
or main device), the first controller 570 controls the first image
processor 520 of the display apparatus 500 (original device or spare
device) to process the image signal transmitted by the image supply
source 20 rather than transmitting the image signal to the upgrading
apparatus 600. The first controller 570 controls the display unit 530 to
display an image thereon based on the image signal processed by the first
image processor 520.

[0220] Accordingly, even upon occurrence of the error from the upgrading
apparatus 600 (original device), the image signal may be normally
processed and displayed by the display apparatus 500 (spare device)
without suspension. Further, not only the image processing operation but
also all of functions of the upgrading apparatus 600 including the
execution of various applications of a smart TV are performed by the
display apparatus 500. That is, any convenience due to suspension of
services may be prevented.

[0221] The first controller 570 controls the display unit 530 to display
thereon an interfaces 51 and 52 (hereinafter, to be also called GUI or
UI) regarding the error of the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0223] As shown in FIG. 16, if an error of the upgrading apparatus 600
(main device) is detected, the first controller 570 displays on the
display unit 530 a UI 51 showing that the control right to the image
processing process and other functions is transferred to the display
apparatus 500 (spare device). Thus, a user may view images without
suspension and recognize the occurrence of the error from the upgrading
apparatus 600.

[0224] If the occurrence of the error from the upgrading apparatus 600 is
detected, the first controller 570 controls the communication unit 560 to
notify the management server 30 of the foregoing. A manager may easily
manage the display system 1 through such notification.

[0225] The second controller 670 restores the error of the upgrading
apparatus 600. The first controller 570 may restore the error by
resetting or rebooting the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0226] If the error of the upgrading apparatus 600 is restored by the
reset or rebooting, the second controller 670 controls the second
connector 610 to periodically transmit the suspended heat bit signal to
the display apparatus 500. The heat bit signal may be a response signal
to a predetermined signal that is periodically transmitted by the display
apparatus 500 to the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0227] If it is detected that the heat bit signal is transmitted by the
upgrading apparatus 600 through the first connector 510, the first
controller 570 determines that the error of the upgrading apparatus 600
has been restored. The control right of the display apparatus 500 is
transferred to the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0228] Accordingly, the first controller 570 controls the first connector
510 to transmit the image signal from the image supply source 20 to the
upgrading apparatus 600, and to receive the processed image signal from
the upgrading apparatus 600, and controls the display unit 530 to display
an image thereon based on the received image signal.

[0229] The second controller 670 of the upgrading apparatus 600 receives
the image signal from the display apparatus 500 through the second
connector 610, and controls the second image processor 620 to process the
image signal. The processed image signal is transmitted to the display
apparatus 500 through the second connector 610. The first image processor
520 of the display apparatus 500 becomes a spare resource again. The
second controller 670 executes at least one application including the
graphic processing such as GUI and transmits the processed signal to the
display apparatus 500 through the second connector 610. The second
controller 670 controls the second connector 610 to periodically transmit
a heat bit signal to the display apparatus 500.

[0230] As shown in FIG. 17, the first controller 570 controls the display
unit 530 to display a UI 52 showing that the error of the upgrading
apparatus 600 has been restored and the control right has been
transferred to the upgrading apparatus 600 (main device). Then, a user
may recognize that the error of the upgrading apparatus 600 has been
restored and the upgrading apparatus 600 normally operates.

[0231] If the error of the upgrading apparatus 600 is not restored by the
reset or rebooting, the first controller 570 may control the display unit
530 to display a UI showing that the error has not been restored and A/S
is requested, while the control right is retained by the display
apparatus 500. The first controller 570 may receive the remote
examination of the upgrading apparatus 600 through the communication unit
560 of the management server 30 and restore the error.

[0232]FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a control method of a display
apparatus 500 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0233] As shown therein, the first controller 570 of the display apparatus
500 monitors the state of the upgrading apparatus 600 connected to the
first connector 510 of the display apparatus 500 to upgrade
hardware/software (S602). The first controller 570 may monitor the state
of the upgrading apparatus 600 based on the heat bit signal periodically
transmitted by the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0234] The first controller 570 determines whether there is any error in
the upgrading apparatus 600 based on the monitoring at operation 5602
(S604). If the heat bit signal is not transmitted by the upgrading
apparatus 600, the first controller 570 may determine that the error has
occurred from the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0235] If the error has been detected from the upgrading apparatus 600 at
operation (S604--YES), the first controller 570 transfers the control
right to the display apparatus 500, and controls the first image
processor 520 to process the image signal supplied by the image supply
source 20 (S606). The first controller 570 further executes at least one
application to perform the function of the upgrading apparatus 600. The
display unit 530 displays an image thereon based on the image signal
processed by the first image processor 520 and the signal processed by
various applications. If the error has not been detected from the
upgrading apparatus 600 at operation (S604--NO), the first controller 570
may continue monitoring the state of the upgrading apparatus 600 based on
the heat bit signal periodically transmitted by the upgrading apparatus
600.

[0236] The first controller 570 controls the display unit 530 to display
thereon a UI 51 regarding the error of the upgrading apparatus 600
(S608).

[0237] The first controller 570 continues to monitor the state of the
upgrading apparatus 600 and determines whether the upgrading apparatus
600 has been restored from the error (S610). If the heat bit signal which
was suspended at operation 5604 is periodically transmitted again, the
first controller 570 may determine that the upgrading apparatus 600 has
been restored from the error.

[0238] If it is determined at operation at S610 that the upgrading
apparatus 600 has been restored from the error (S610--YES), the first
controller 570 transfers the control right to the upgrading apparatus
600, and the upgrading apparatus 600 processes the image signal and
executes various applications (S612). The first controller 570 controls
the first connector 510 to transmit the image signal from the image
supply source 20 to the upgrading apparatus 600, and to receive the image
signal processed by the upgrading apparatus 600. The display unit 530
displays an image thereon based on the received image signal.

[0239] The first controller 570 controls the display unit 530 to display
thereon a UI 52 showing the restoration of the upgrading apparatus 600
from the error (S614).

[0240] If it is determined at operation 5610 that the upgrading apparatus
600 has not been restored from the error (S610--NO), the first controller
570 may control the communication unit 560 to notify the management
server 30 of the foregoing (S616). If the error is not restored even
after the time required for restoring the error by the reset or rebooting
elapses, the first controller 570 may notify the management server 30 of
the foregoing.

[0241]FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a control method of the upgrading
apparatus 600 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0242] As shown therein, the upgrading apparatus 600 is connected to the
first connector 510 of the display apparatus 500 to upgrade
hardware/software, and periodically transmits a predetermined signal,
i.e., a heat bit signal to the display apparatus 500 (S702). The
upgrading apparatus 600 may transmit to the display apparatus 500 a heat
bit signal as a response signal to a predetermined signal that is
periodically transmitted by the display apparatus 500.

[0243] The second controller 670 determines whether any error has occurred
from the upgrading apparatus 600 (S704). If it is determined that the
error has not occurred at operation (S704--NO), the upgrading apparatus
continues periodically transmitting a predetermined signal.

[0244] If it is determined that the error has occurred at operation
(S704--YES), the periodic transmission of the heat bit signal is
suspended (S706).

[0245] If it is determined that the error has occurred at operation 5704,
the control right to the image processing operation is transferred to the
display apparatus 500, and the display apparatus 500 receives, processes
and displays the image signal (S708). The second controller 670 may
control the second connector 610 to transmit a command for processing the
image signal by the display apparatus 500.

[0246] The second controller 670 restores the error of the upgrading
apparatus 600 (S710). The second controller 670 may restore the error by
resetting or rebooting the upgrading apparatus 600.

[0247] The second controller 670 determines whether the upgrading
apparatus 600 has been restored from the error by the reset or rebooting
(S712).

[0248] If it is determined at operation 5712 that the upgrading apparatus
600 has been restored from the error (S712--YES), the second controller
670 controls the second connector 610 to resume the periodic transmission
of the heat bit signal to the display apparatus 500 (S714).

[0249] If the upgrading apparatus 600 has been not restored from the error
by the reset or rebooting at operation (S712--NO), the second controller
670 according to an exemplary embodiment may transmit to the management
server 30 such fact through the communication unit (not shown) of the
upgrading apparatus 600 or the communication unit 560 of the display
apparatus 500, and receive the remote examination from the management
server 30 and restore the error.

[0250] According to an exemplary embodiment, even upon occurrence of the
error from the upgrading apparatus 600, the display apparatus 500 as a
spare resource performs various processes including the image processing
operation without suspension to thereby minimize user's inconvenience due
to the suspension of services.

[0251] The display apparatus 500 is upgraded and properly utilizes spare
resources, and may continuously provide efficient services without
addition of additional elements.

[0252] Although a few exemplary embodiments have been shown and described,
it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be
made in these exemplary embodiments without departing from the principles
and spirit of the inventive concept, the scope of which is defined in the
appended claims and their equivalents.

Patent applications by Chun-Un Kang, Seoul KR

Patent applications by Dae-Hyun Lee, Hwaseong-Si KR

Patent applications by Jeong-Gon Kim, Gwangmyeong-Si KR

Patent applications by Jong-Il Choi, Seoul KR

Patent applications by Kee-Wook Na, Suwon-Si KR

Patent applications by Moon Su Kim, Goesan-Gun KR

Patent applications by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.

Patent applications in class BASIC RECEIVER WITH ADDITIONAL FUNCTION

Patent applications in all subclasses BASIC RECEIVER WITH ADDITIONAL FUNCTION